Gavin (33) joined the club from Edinburgh with a wealth of experience under his belt. Capped 50 times by Scotland, including appearances at two World Cups, he made the break into professional rugby with Leeds in 2001, joining the Tykes from Caldy. He was a member of the Yorkshire club's team which won the Powergen Cup 20-12 against Bath at Twickenham in 2005
He would make over 100 appearances for the Yorkshire club before moving back to his homeland in 2006 with first the now-defunct Border Reivers and then Edinburgh.
A Scotland player at Under-18, Under-19 and Under-21 level, he made his international debut in 2003 and was called into the World Cup squad later that year, a feat he would repeat four years later.
Gavin made 17 appearances for Sale Sharks last season, scoring a try against London Wasps at High Wycombe.
Sharks' CEO Mick Hogan said, "It is with regret that we learn that a neck injury has forced Gavin to retire. He has always conducted himself in a most professional manner. We thank him for his services to the club and wish him well for the future."
